A rip current captured by Shorebeat’s cameras off Brick Township, Sept. 2023. (Photo: Shorebeat)
The National Weather Service is warning of a heightened risk of rip currents at local beaches Thursday and Friday.
Dangerous rip currents are expected to be present in Ocean County during the day, with the advisory lasting until 8 p.m. Thursday – likely to be extended.
“Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water,” a notice issued by the NWS said. “Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don`t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”
According to the NWS Surf Zone forecast, the rip current risk Friday will be “high” with waves in the surf building to 3-4 feet. South-southeast winds of 10 m.p.h. are expected, with the ocean water temperature remaining in the high 60s. High tide occurs at about 3:12 p.m.
Rip currents, likewise, are forecast to be “moderate” on Friday with wave heights in the surf zone measuring 2-3 feet.
A rip current captured by Shorebeat’s cameras off Brick Township, Sept. 2023. (Photo: Shorebeat)
A high risk of rip currents means that life-threatening rips are “likely” in the surf zone, while a moderate risk means they are “possible,” according to the NWS forecast.
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